First Published in 1946, The English Local Government System has undoubtedly been one of the most successful introductory books on this subject. The purpose of this book is not so much to describe the various local government services, but rather to discuss the machinery and methods utilized in the provision of these services.

It discusses crucial themes like business yardsticks; the constitutional setting; judicial control; the associations of local authorities; the financial basis; state grants and providing for capital expenditure; the local authority's constitution; the impact of politics on administration; delegation of powers to committees; the need for reform; and central local relationships. This is an important historical reference work for students of public administration and British government and politics.